American Petroleum First Act

American Petroleum First Act

This bill exempts certain vessels transporting crude oil or petroleum products from vessel documentation requirements as well as coastwise endorsement requirements.

Specifically, the bill authorizes a vessel certificate of documentation (i.e., registration) to be issued for a vessel transporting crude oil or petroleum products, unless the vessel is (1) owned by a Russian national or Russia, (2) a Russian-flagged vessel, or (3) a vessel with any Russian crew member.

The bill also authorizes a coastwise endorsement to be issued for a vessel that is transporting oil or petroleum products. Such an endorsement allows a vessel to engage in certain trade.